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Ford F-250 Information specifications reviews

Ford F-Series

ManufacturerFord Motor Company

Production1948–present

SuccessorFord Super Duty (F-250 & F-350)

ClassFull-size pickup truck

LayoutFront engine, rear-wheel drive / four-wheel drive

The F-Series is a series of full-size pickup trucks from Ford Motor Company sold for over five decades. The most popular variant of the F-Series is the F-150. It was the best-selling vehicle in the United States for 24 years and has been the best-selling truck for 34 years, though this does not include combined sales of GM pickup trucks. Analysts estimate that the F-Series alone makes up half of the Ford Motor Company's profits in recent years. In the tenth generation of the F-series, the F-250HD and F-350 which were changed to diesel fuel changed body style in 1998 and joined the Super Duty series.

The first F-Series truck (known as the Ford Bonus-Built) was introduced in 1948, replacing the company's previous car-based pickup line. It was a modern-looking truck with a flat, one-piece windshield and integrated headlights. Options were the "See-Clear" windshield washer (operated by foot plunger), passenger side windshield wiper & sun visor, and passenger side taillight. The F-1 truck was also available with additional chrome and two horns as an option. All F-series were available in "Marmon-Herrington All Wheel Drive" until 1959. A Mercury-badged version of this F-Series was sold only in Canada.

Design of the F-Series truck changed little from 1948 to 1952. From 1948–1950, the grill was a series of horizontal bars and the headlights were set into the fenders. For 1951 and 1952, the headlights were connected by a wide aerodynamic cross piece with three similarly aerodynamic supports. The rear window was wider in the later trucks and the dashboard was redesigned.

F-series trucks were built at sixteen different Ford plants. Serial numbers indicate the truck model, engine, year, assembly plant, and unit number. The most common model was the F-1 with a 6 ½-foot bed followed by the F-2 and F-3 Express models with an 8-foot (2.4 m) bed.

The F-Series was redesigned for 1953 with a more integrated look. The pickups also acquired their now familiar names: The F-1 now became the F-100, the F-2 now became the F-250, and the F-3 now became the 1 ton F-350. Starting on the 1956 models, Ford offers the very rare "Low GVWR" versions of each model. Interior amenities were new, including a dome light, lighter, arm rests, and sun visors. On March 13, 1953, "Ford-O-Matic" automatic transmissions became an option.

1954 saw the introduction of the new 239 CID overhead valve Y-block V8, dubbed "Power King." Canadian models, however, (including the Mercury M-Series), retained the flathead. The inline six was increased in size, and power steering was introduced as an option.

Second generation trucks were built in Brazil from 1957 to 1962 as the F-100, F-350 and F-600.

The truck was restyled again in 1957 with a hood that now sat flush with the fenders and a new chrome grille. In the back, the traditional separate-fender body was now called flareside, while a new smooth-sided look was known as styleside. Four wheel drive drive-train, which was previously outsourced to Marmon-Herrington, was produced in-house by Ford Motor Company beginning in 1959. Ford still offers a "Low GVWR" version of each model. In May 1957 Ford discontinued building trucks at the Highland Park Ford Plant in Highland Park, Michigan. All heavy trucks were transferred to Kentucky Truck Assembly in Louisville, Kentucky. All light and medium trucks were transferred to 10 other plants in the USA.

Third generation trucks were built in Brazil as the F-100, F-350 & F-600 from 1962 to 1971.

The truck was completely redesigned for 1961 with a wider look, and unibody trucks were available, built with an integrated cab and box, from 1961–63. From 1964 on, only the traditional separate cab and bed arrangement were available. Power was over 200 hp (150 kW) with the 1965 update of the powertrain. In 1965, the Twin I-Beam front suspension was introduced with coil springs and the 300 replaced the 223. 1965 also marked the beginning of a completely different chassis and many parts from 65-79 interchange such as brakes and motor mounts. The 1965 and 1966 trucks have a "TWIN I-BEAM" emblem on the front fender. A 4-door crew cab version was also introduced in 1965, still a popular option.

Ford still offered a "Low GVWR" version of each model.

The Camper Special was built heavier for the slide in campers that were becoming increasingly popular during this time.

In 1965, the name "Ranger" is first introduced as a styling package for the F-Series pickup trucks using mustang bucket seats and a curtain over the gas tank. Then later (1982) the name Ranger is used for Ford's compact series trucks; an entry in the mini-pickup segment. It went on to become the top-selling compact pickup in the American market.

In 1965, the 300-cubic inch (4.9 L) straight six was introduced (a larger version of the 240-cubic inch Six). It had 7 main bearings and timing gears (no chain or belt).

Another refresh came in 1967 along with a familiar name: the upscale Ranger trim line in addition to the base and Custom Cab trim levels. In 1968, federal regulations required all automotive manufacturers to add side marker reflectors or lights, so Ford redesigned the hood emblems to incorporate reflectors. The same year the trucks received larger versions of Ford's FE engine family with the introduction of the 360 and 390 cubic inch engines. Also changed for 1968 were the heater controls, arm rests, interior door handles and window cranks, and the upper trim moulding on models so equipped. Rear side marker reflectors were also added to the lower bed side panels in 1968, per government regulations. The 302 V8 became an option in late '69. The top trim for 1970 was now named Ranger XLT with Ranger, Sport Custom and Custom rounding off the rest of the line. The fifth generation bodies were noted for durability and simplicity of design making them a favorite for restoration.

Some trucks came with an outer flush mounted bed side compartment/tool box on the passenger side only. Trucks from the Fifth Generation can be identified as to year model by their year specific grille arrangements.

After the 1968 models, Ford discontinued the "Low GVWR" versions. Still available was the Camper Special option, along with the new Explorer Special (a trim package), Contractor's Special(including a behind the seat toolbox and 3/4 ton (F-250) suspension), Farm and Ranch Special, and Heavy-Duty Special. Most of these "specials" from 1967–72 were made in relatively low numbers and are now becoming increasingly difficult to locate.

The fifth-generation F-series was introduced in Brazil in 1971, which remained in production until circa 1992[5] with a slight redesign and changes in its motorizations. It was the last Ford truck manufactured in the Ipiranga plant, that was soon closed.

The truck was redesigned in 1973; the grille for the 1973 model year featured two silver-metallic plastic inserts divided by an aluminum bar that was part of the main grille frame, with the letters "F O R D" spaced out in a thin rail in the upper part of the grille. Large round headlights were on either side of the grille with the park/turn signal lamps placed above in the same rail where the "FORD" lettering was. Medium-duty models, however, weren't redesigned as drastically as the light-duty trucks. In fact they were incredibly similar to the fifth-generation medium-duty F-Series trucks. In 1976, this familiar "split-grille" design was facelifted slightly to feature black accents around the headlights and a refined appearance overall. In 1978, the round headlight design was retained for the regular Ranger and Custom trim levels. The XLT and "Lariat" trim level incorporated rectangular headlights with optional chrome headlight doors and chrome grille insert. The split grille design was overhauled in favor of a single-piece grille insert design. The headlights were also placed in a more stylized "insert" themselves, and the park/turn signal lamps were now placed below the headlights. Additionally, a new chrome-plated "F O R D" letter set could now be seen on the hood immediately above the grille. A luxury Lariat trim was also introduced for 1978. In 1979, the round headlights were replaced by rectangular headlamps across all the trim levels and the surrounding grille insert that framed the headlamps was now available in either black, or chrome to match that of the aluminum grille frame.

The similarities between 1967–1972 medium-duty F-Series, compared to those made between 1973 and 1979.

In 1973, a new model was offered, the F350 SRW (single rear wheel) pickup. These were a new heavy duty pickup with contractors and camping enthusiasts in mind. The trucks rode on a longer wheel base chassis but were the same overall length as an F250 pickup. If you ordered the Camper Special package on an F350 SRW it became a Super Camper Special which was designed for the much heavier slide-in campers coming on the market at that time. Other changes included the 1974 introduction of the extended super cab version. The F-150 was introduced in 1975 to help circumvent coming emissions requirements. These came with a maximum payload of 2,275 lb (1,032 kg) when properly equipped. With the 1/2 ton F-100 still in production, the new F-150 was referred to as the "heavy half" ton by some people.

In 1976, the F-series became the best-selling truck in America, a position it has continued to hold since. This generation is noted for the durability of the body panels as Ford used extensive amounts of galvanized sheet metal to fight corrosion. 1977 was the first year for smaller cowl insignias moved near the windshield and the last year for the medium-duty F-500.

The GVWR ratings for these trucks was tied to a combination of wheel, spring, axle and brake combinations. The series code on the ID tag denotes which model and from that it can be determined what weight rating each vehicle has. 4X4 trucks can also be identified by the VIN number and on the ID plate as a serial number. For example, F10 is an F-100 2 wheel drive but F11 is an F-100 4X4, and so on. Serial numbers beginning with an X are SuperCab models.

Starting in 1978, Ford redesigned their Ford Bronco and based it off of the F-150. The Bronco was now virtually identical to the F-150, except for the unibody design structure. The new Bronco incorporated design characteristics which eliminated leaky roofs and body flex associated with other full size removable top utility vehicles of the era. This allowed Ford to compete better with the Chevrolet Blazer by offering a larger and more luxurious SUV while minimalizing production costs since many (especially the most complex and expensive) parts were shared with the F-series trucks. The Bronco was only offered with the 351M and 400 V8 engines

The next major redesign came in 1980. The new truck had a squarer look, with sharp lines and flat panels; the trucks were designed with improved fuel efficiency in mind, and to this end, Ford added its new AOD automatic overdrive (four-speed) transmission as an option on light-duty models. Also new was Ford's first use of an independent front suspension on 4X4 models. The Ranger trim line was dropped from the F-Series in 1982, since that name was to be applied to the new Ford Ranger compact pickup, which replaced the Ford Courier mini-pickup line. Trim options became XL, XLS, XLT, and XLT Lariat. In 1982 the "F-O-R-D" letters were removed from the hood and a blue oval logo appeared on a slightly re-designed grille that featured fewer vertical bars than the previous 1980–1981 grille.

The big-block 460 CID V8 was dropped for 1980, but returned in 1983 along with the 6.9 L V8 International Harvester IDI option. In 1982, the 335-series "Cleveland" V8s were discontinued. The 351M was replaced by the 351 Windsor (an older design that now made its debut in light trucks), while the 400 vanished altogether (Ford's competitors had ceased selling engines in that size range a few years before). The 5.0 L V8 switched over to fuel injection, first as an option in 1985 and then as standard in 1986.

The new Essex V6 was added in 1982, but didn't sell particularly well. It was dropped after 1983, and the long-lived 300 inline six continued as the standard engine through the series. A work truck package called "6+6" was available, pairing the 300 CID inline six with the C6 transmission. These were also the last American vehicles to have a column-mounted manual transmission.

The F-100 was dropped as the base model at the end of 1983 and the now-familiar F-150 took its place as the base model F-Series truck for 1984. This generation also saw extensive use of galvanized body panels to fight corrosion which is now gaining them popularity among restorers.

The various changes that occurred between the 1981 and 1982 model years were accompanied by a slight cosmetic change- 1980–81 trucks have a plain grille with "FORD" spelled across the front of the hood in chrome letters, similar to the previous generation. 1982–86 models had the letters removed, and a Ford oval placed in the center of the grille. This made the 1982 the first model year to feature a blue oval on the front, something that has been on every model that followed it, with the exception of the 2010 F-150 SVT Raptor.[6]

This generation saw two different sets of trim levels:

In 1980 and 1981, there was:

Custom- Mainly Base model with manual locks/windows, vinyl seat, and black rubber floor mat,but could be had with other options.

Ranger XLT- A step up from the Ranger that added better seat trim, a color-keyed headliner, color-keyed carpeting, aluminum tailgate trim and optional power windows/locks.

Ranger Lariat- a step above the XLT that added a plusher interior,and Woodgrain Trim on the door panels.It also featured special "Lariat" emblems on the cab,as well as Ranger Lariat script above the radio.

For 1982–1986:

Base – basically the same as the Custom of the previous years.

XL – replaced the intermediate Ranger trim for 1982 as the Ranger name would be used for Ford's new compact truck.

XLS- a new trim level that featured a blacked-out grille, bumpers, headlight bezels, and windshield trim. It also featured a stripe graphics package and black and silver dash trim. Available exterior colors were red, silver, and black.

XLT Lariat- featured floor carpeting, color-keyed headliner, a standard chrome grille, and optional power windows/door locks.1984 saw the last year for woodgrain trim on the door panels as 1985–1986 models had a carpeted section applied to the door panels.In 1985 the tailgate trim was changed to a "flat" full width aluminum with a red "reflector" towards the bottom with chrome FORD letters.

Explorer – Could be had with any interior setup. The "Explorer" trim line received a higher geared rear end, an AM/FM radio, chrome bumpers, chrome fender well trim, and a chrome grill. The Explorer Line would later be dropped to introduce the Ford Explorer SUV in 1991.Explorer packages changed every year,and were only offered for a limited time each model year.

This generation of Ford trucks are the latest to become popular restoration projects as most of these trucks are becoming emissions exempt in most states and now old enough to be registered as classics or antiques.

In Mexico, there is an "F-200" which was introduced in 1976. This variant remained until 1991.

The 1987 design was more streamlined, and maintenance items were made simpler. Rear antilock brakes were now standard, and the first truck to boast this. The manual transmission was revised with five speeds in 1988, and the flareside box was dropped. For 1987 the 4.9 L (300 CID) had standard fuel injection; for 1988, the 351 CID (5.8 L) and 7.5 L (460 CID) also gained fuel injection, with 1988 being the first year no carbureted engines were offered. 1988 also saw the replacement of the 6.9 L (420 CID) diesel V8 with a 7.3 L (445 CID) International Harvester IDI diesel V8 (now making 180 hp (130 kW). and 365 ft·lbf (495 N·m). of torque).

Four wheel drive improvements included the addition of automatic locking hubs for the F-150 in 1989, and for the rest in 1991. Starting in 1980 (to 1996), Ford offered a four-wheel-drive swing arm independent front suspension called Twin-Traction Beam, or TTB. Based on its I-beam suspension from the mid '60s, Ford mounted a Dana 44 differential in the driver-side (front) axle beam and transmitted torque to the passenger-side wheel with a double U-jointed axleshaft. Radius arms and coil springs were still used on the F-150's, while the four-wheel-drive F-250s and F-350s got leaf springs. The F-250s received TTB Dana 50 axles and the F-350s got a solid axle Dana 60. The 5.0 L (302 CID) truck also had an optional "Touch Drive" electronic transfer case. Custom, XL, XLT, and XLT Lariat were the trim options available. Towards the end of this generation, there was the addition of the behind cab cargo light.

For 1991, a new "Nite" trim package was introduced. It included all blacked-out exterior trim and either a pink or blue/purple stripe and "Nite" decal on the sides of the cargo box. Some sources report that a sport suspension was included, although this is not certain.

The "F-Super Duty" (as the fender emblems stated) models appeared from 1987 to 1997. They were basically F-450s built as an "incomplete vehicle" (chassis cab) due to the fact that there was no bed installed and an aftermarket bed (specific to its future use) was added after the truck's initial build date. It came with dual fuel tanks with a dash-mounted toggle switch to switch between each tank while using only the one fuel gauge. It came with a PTO (Power Take-Off) used to power attachments (like winches or a dump bed) from the transmission. They were rated at about 15,000 lb (6,800 kg) GVWR (Gross Vehicle Weight Rating). They came with either the standard 7.5 L (460 CID) gas V8 or the optional 7.3 L (445 CID) diesel V8. All wheels were 10-lug with DRW (Dual Rear Wheels). This model should not be confused with the "Super Duty" commercial line of trucks starting with the 1999 model year.

The 1992 truck received a new aerodynamic-looking front end, a new dashboard, and the Flaresidebed returned. The "Nite" package introduced in 1991 continued, but was dropped at the end of the 1992 model year.

The Lightning Performance Truck appeared as a 1993 model, with more than 20 industry "firsts" or pilot applications, including 17-inch (430 mm) aluminum wheels, gas-charged shocks, and performance handling developed by world-champion driver Jackie Stewart. The Lightning was powered by a special 240 hp (180 kW) version of the 351-cubic-inch (5.8 L) V-8 engine.

The 1994 models brought several changes, including a driver's-side airbag, "CHMSL" third brake light, brake-shift interlock and CFC-free air conditioning. New options in 1994 included remote keyless entry with alarm, a compact disc player fitted into the regular stereo system, and a power driver's seat; an electrochromic inside rear view mirror was also offered in 1994 and 1995 as part of a luxury light package. Following the lead of the Explorer, an Eddie Bauer trim line — featuring plusher trim and increased standard features — was added for 1995.

Ford trailed rival General Motors in combined truck sales for much of the ninth generation, though sales steadily rose each year. 500,000 F-Series trucks were sold in 1992, but this rose to nearly 800,000 by 1996, and the Ford had overtaken the combined Chevrolet and GMC pickup sales for the first time in a decade.

The 7.5 L and diesel engines were not available on the F-150, and the 4.9 L and 5.0 L were not available on the F-350 or F-450. (With the exception of the 4.9L I6 and 5.0L V8 being standard in 2 and 4 wheel drive Light Duty F-250 trucks.)

Ford took the aero styling further for 1997 with a rounded nose on the new F-series. Since it was the F-150's first major redesign since 1980, the redesigned truck went on a nation-wide 87-stop tour to Ford plants and the external part suppliers in October, 1995 prior to its release.[7] To build anticipation for the redesigned truck, the 1997 model was released in January 1996 with the first ad campaigns airing during Super Bowl XXX. Because of the radical styling, Ford predicted that traditional truck buyers wouldn't receive the radical and car-like 1997 too well, so it continued to produce and sell the previous 1996 model alongside the redesigned 1997 model for a few months.[8]

The regular F-250 (light duty) was basically an F-150 with the same body panels but with heavy duty axles and suspension, along with 7 lug wheels. Additionally, the F-250 Light Duty also offered a load leveling rear suspension system. The F-250 HD (Heavy Duty) was in the same series as the F-350. With the arrival of the all new 1999 "Super Duty" series in early 1998, the standard F-250 ('light duty'), F-250HD (Heavy Duty), & F-350 line was totally dropped and the F-250 (light duty) was offered as the "7700" package for the F-150 (noted on the tailgate emblem).

1999–2003 Ford F-150 SuperCab long bed

Completely new, more efficient engines were offered beginning in 1997. A 4.2 L OHV V6, based on Ford's 3.8 L Essex V6, replaced the 4.9 L OHV I6, while 4.6 and 5.4 liter SOHC V8s replaced the 5.0and 5.8, liter OHV V8s, also the 7.5 liter big block V8 was replaced by the 6.8 liter V10 for the super duty models respectively. The 4.6 and 5.4 liter V8s were marketed under the name "Triton" and mark the first use of Ford's Modular Single Overhead Cam (SOHC) engines in the F-Series pickups.

A wide variety of body options were available: regular cab and SuperCab, standard or flareside boxes, and short and long beds. A new Lightning was introduced in 1999, and Harley-Davidson and King Ranch versions were also created. In 2001 the SuperCrew cab was introduced with four full-size doors. In 2002, an FX4 model was introduced which came with skid plates,a carbon steel frame, Rancho shock absorbers, and specific 17" aluminum wheels along with more standard features that were optional on XLT. In 2003, a sporty STX trim package was introduced, aimed at younger truck buyers. The STX package featured color keyed front/rear bumpers along with clear lens headlights and integrated round fog lamps. The package also featured chrome step rails, 17" chrome wheels, and a Kenwood Z828 stereo was installed in place of the standard Ford radio.

Ford F-150 Flareside

Ford F-150 SVT Lightning

Ford F-150 King Ranch SuperCrew

Ford F-150 Harley Davidson SuperCrew

This generation F-150 received an overall "Poor" rating by the IIHS in the frontal offset test[9], and was ranked the "2nd Worst Performer" behind the 1997–2005 GM U-platform minivans.

Sales of the F-150 surged in the tenth generation from 750,000 to over 900,000 in 2001 as the General Motors and Dodge products lagged. Ford's sales dropped, however, for the final years of this generation as the redesigned Dodge trucks were released.

The new F-150 was Motor Trend magazine's Truck of the Year for 1997.[10] The grille was updated in 1999 with minor interior updates as well. The SuperCrew was added to the lineup in 2001. Ford manufactured a limited run of "Heritage Edition" F-150s of this body style in 2004 (as 2004 model years) to finish out production. This truck, with an updated grille, is still available in Mexico as a less-expensive alternative to the current trucks.

Ford has found that the cruise control system in many of their trucks could catch fire, because the switch system could corrode over time, overheat and ignite. Ignition was later blamed on spillage from the adjacent master cylinder. On March 5, 2007 Ford recalled 155,000 2003 full-size pickups and full-size SUVs for the defective part. During the previous two years Ford had recalled 5.8 million vehicles in because of the defective cruise control systems in trucks, SUVs and vans. That recall, one of the largest in history, covered vehicles from the 1994–2002 model years.[11]

This generation of F-150 was sold in Mexico until the twelfth generation 2010 model was released there.

In 2004, Ford redesigned the F-150 using the new P2 platform. The side windows also changed to a Kenworth "Daylight Door" and Ford Super Duty-like appearance; dipping towards the front of the door. Initially, only Ford's 4.6 L Triton or new 3-valve 5.4 L 3V Triton V8 engines and four-speed automatic transmissions were offered to the retail public on the new trucks. In 2005, Ford's 4.2 L Essex V6 and manual transmission became available and standard on base models after they were available only for fleet orders for 2004.

The F-250 and F-350 Ford Super Duties (on the P3 platform) are a different class (over 8,500 lb (3,900 kg) GVWR) than the regular F-series lineup, although they are still F-series trucks.

All F-Series have two large "closed loop" front tow hook design as opposed to conventional open hooks, which may bend out or even break. The F-Series can pull up to 30,000 lb (14,000 kg). with just one hook.

For the 2006 model year beginning in December, 2005, a flex-fuel version of the 3-valve 5.4 L Triton V8 became available.

For 2007, Ford introduced a complement to the existing FX4 model, the new FX2 Sport package (a 2 wheel drive truck with an appearance package).

Ford states a properly equipped 2007 F-150 (Long Wheel Base, 2WD model only) can tow up to 11,000 lb (5,000 kg) maximum and 1800–3050 lb maximum payload, though Ford has not indicated any design changes occurred to support the upgraded towing capacity numbers from the previous model years. The original tow rating of 9,900 lb (4,500 kg) was raised to 10,500 lb (4,800 kg) upon announcement of the new 2007 Chevrolet Silverado's 10,500 lb (4,800 kg) maximum towing capacity. Ford again raised the F-150's maximum towing capacity number to 11,000 lb (5,000 kg) upon announcement of the new 2007 Toyota Tundra's 10,800 lb (4,900 kg) maximum towing capacity. The 2004–2008 F-150 model years are mechanically identical, and no technical explanation has been offered by Ford regarding the increase in tow ratings.

This generation F-150 got top safety ratings (5 stars) from the NHSTA in frontal collisions, and not only got a "Good" rating from the Insurance Institute for Highway Safety's frontal offset test, but also a Best Pick. The dummy sensors recorded no injuries to any body region.

Saleen offers their own OEM version of the F-150, badged as the S331. Additionally, Roush offers an aftermarket version with similar power. Beginning with the second half of the 2007 model year, Ford offered the Saleen forced-induction package on the Harley edition as an OEM option.

The F-150 Foose Edition debuted in fall 2007 as a 2008 model. Based on an F-150 FX2 Sport, it uses a Roush-developed powertrain. The supercharged 5.4 L V8 puts out 450 hp (340 kW) and 500 lb·ft (680 N·m) of torque.

Awards, sales accomplishments

The new F-150 earned the North American Truck of the Year award for 2004 and was Motor Trendmagazine's Truck of the Year for 2004. It also beat the three-time winning Chevrolet Silverado for Car and Driver magazine's Best Pickup Truck for 2004 and 2005. Additionally, over 939,000 F-Series trucks were sold in 2005, a single-year sales record for trucks.

As a popular fleet vehicle, this generation of the F-Series has garnered a number of awards from fleet management professionals. The 2006 F-150 was named Fleet Truck of the Year by Automotive Fleet and Business Fleet magazines, and the 2007 models of the F-150, F-250 and F-350 were chosen Best Fleet Value vehicles in their respective categories by automotive data-analysis firm Vincentric. Winner of the 2006–2007 Golden Icon Award (presented by Travolta Family Entertainment) for "Best Truck".

According to Consumer Reports' used car reliability history data, the 2004–2008 F-150 with the 4.2 L V6 engine is the most reliable American pickup truck ever produced in history. It scored a rating of excellent for five straight consecutive years within one body generation, something that domestics had never earned in the past.

Ford revealed the next generation 2009 F-150 design at the North American International Auto Show in January, 2008. Production of the series began in October 2008 at Ford's Kansas City Assembly Plant.[16] The truck features a larger and more flexible interior, an updated three-bar grille, and additional choices of cab styles and trim levels. The chassis includes lighter-weight, high strength steel for better fuel economy and safety and improved payload and towing capacity. Three engines are initially offered with the 2009 redesign: a revised 5.4 L 3-valve Triton V8 that is E85 capable with a new output rating of 320 hp (240 kW) and 395 lb·ft (536 N·m) of torque, a 292 hp (218 kW) 4.6 L 3-valve V8, and a 248 hp (185 kW) 4.6 L 2-valve V8. The 3-valve 5.4 and 4.6 liter V8s are mated to Ford's new 6R80E 6-speed automatic transmission while the 4R75E 4-speed automatic transmission used previously is carried over for the 2-valve 4.6 L V8. The 4.2 L OHV V6 engine, which was previously available, has been dropped due to the closure of the Essex engine plant where it was produced. Additional engine offerings under development include a new 4.4 L diesel V8 with a projected 330 hp (250 kW) and 400 lb·ft (540 N·m) of torque and an Ecoboost gas turbocharged direct injection 3.5 L DOHC V6.[17] The 4.4L diesel has been put on hold.

A top-of-the-line Platinum edition F-150 replaced the Lincoln Mark LT truck.[18] However, this trim line is still sold as the Lincoln Mark LT in Mexico.

2009 Ford F-150 XLT extended cab

The 2009 Ford F150 features front-seat side impact airbags and Ford's Safety Canopy System for the first and second rows as Head protection in the event of a side impact. It will also feature Ford's exclusive ADVANCETRAC RSC (Roll Stability Control)--an Electronic Stability control and anti-rollover safety feature also available in other Ford vehicles, from the Fusion to the Expedition.

The worsening economic situation in US and the declining sales of F-150s prompted Ford to delay the introduction of the new F-150 by two months.[19]

Beginning in 2009, manual transmissions will no longer be available in the F-150. Manual transmissions will continue to be available in the F-250/F-350 Super duty pickups.

2009 was the last year when FLARESIDE Box was available, and the last year when the 17" wheels for the FX4 Off-Road were available. In 2010 The only box will be STYLESIDE, and the base wheels for FX4 will be 18".

Ford originally planned to reintroduce F-100, known internally as P525, as global replacement for Ford Ranger in 2010 or 2011,[20] but the plan was cancelled, instead offering EcoBoost engines for F-150.[21]

Safety

The F-150 comes standard with AdvanceTrac Electronic Stability Control, front and rear row side curtain airbags, and front row torso side airbags. In IIHS crash tests the F150 received the Goodoverall score in both front and side impact tests and was given the Top Safety Pick award.[22]

NHTSA F150 crash test results:[23]

Frontal Driver:

Frontal Passenger:

Side Driver:

Side Rear Passenger:

2wd Rollover:

4wd Rollover:

SVT Raptor

2010 Ford F-150 Raptor

Ford announced the production of the 2010 F-150 SVT Raptor as a dedicated off-roader. It is powered by a 5.4L engine, with a 6.2L option that is available for purchase now. The 6.2L engine has over 400 horsepower (300 kW) and 400 ft·lbf (540 N·m). of torque. The suggested retail price is $3000 over the 5.4L model. A six-speed automatic is standard.[24] It has Fox Racing internal bypass shocks with external reservoirs which allows for 11" of suspension travel in front, and 13" in the rear. It will come standard with 35" BFG All Terrain tires, and a 4.10 ratio locking limited slip rear axle. Also, it will be available in solid black, white, blue, and orange with a "digital mud" decal scheme as an option.

The race version, F-150 SVT Raptor R, was also built for the Baja 1000 races. It uses a 6.2 L engine rated at 500 hp.

The first production Raptor, orange with the digital mud graphic, sold at an auction for $130,000. Ford donated all proceeds above the MSRP to charity.

2010 Harley-Davidson F-150

2010 Ford F-150 Harley Davidson

On February 10, 2009 at the Chicago Auto Show, the latest edition of the F-150 was introduced. Adopting many luxury features of the Platinum Edition, this Harley went one step further by providing leather seating surfaces derived from authentic Harley biker-jacket materials, as well as the requisite exhaust tones and power to reach a top speed of 115 miles per hour (185 km/h).

F-150 Platinum

Ford ceased sales of the Lincoln Mark LT in the United States and Canada after the 2008 model year.[28] In its place beginning in the 2010 model year, Ford created an upper-end trim of the 2009 F-150 called F-150 Platinum. Sales continued in Mexico, because the Ford F-150 was sold as the Ford Lobo until the 2010 model was released there.

Concepts

At the 2008 SEMA show, four 2009 Ford F-150s were unveiled: the F-150 Heavy Duty DEWALT Contractor, the FX-4 by X-Treme Toyz, the F-150 by Street Scene Equipment, and the Hi-Pa Drive F-150. The Heavy Duty DEWALT Contractor was built in a DeWalt theme. The FX-4, also called Fahrenheit F-150, was built for outdoor lifestyle enthusiasts. The Street Scene Equipment version is a lowered truck built with performance and style. The Hi-Pa Drive F-150 was powered by 4 electric in-wheel motors rated over 480 hp (360 kW) and over 375 ft·lbf (508 N·m) torque combined.

Electric/Hybrid Vehicles

Ford will supply Smith Electric Vehicles with a range of its Ford F-Series commercial vehicles as the chassis for Smith's US-specific vehicles. The first of these vehicles is the Faraday mark II, built using the Ford F-650 chassis cab, with a gross vehicle weight (GVW) of up to 13,000 kg (29,000 lb). It manufactures the first of this product in the second half of 2008.

Ford and PML Flightlink worked together to produce the Hi-Pa Drive Ford F150 pickup prototype vehicle which was unveiled at the SEMA show 2008.

Motorsports

In 2008, Ford announced its intention to enter Baja 1000 race class 8 race. The race team consisted driver of record Steve Oligos and co-drivers Randy Merritt, Greg Foutz and Bud Brutsman, competing in class eight for moderately modified full-size pickup trucks.[34] The vehicle was built in collaboration between the Ford Special Vehicle Team (SVT), Ford Racing, and Foutz Motorsports Inc. Ford F-150 SVT Raptor R completed the 2008 41st Tecate SCORE Baja 1000 race in 25:28:10,[35] or 3rd rank within the class.

In Best In The Desert race series, F150 SVT Raptor R completed the "Terrible's 250" race in overall 2nd place in Class 8000.

Awards and Recognition

It has won numerous awards; In 2009 alone, the Ford F-150 received:

Motor Trend 2009 Truck of the Year Award™

2009 Best Redesigned Vehicle from Kelley Blue Book’s kbb.com

Top honors as “Truck of Texas” as well as “Best Luxury Pickup” for the 2009 F-150 King Ranch from Texas Auto Writers Association

“Best Overall Half-Ton Pickup” from PickupTrucks.com

“Automotive Excellence” award in the Workhorse Category from Popular Mechanics <

“Top Safety Pick” from the Insurance Institute for Highway Safety for its standard safety technology: Safety Canopy side curtain air bags and AdvanceTrac with Roll Stability Control

“Residual Value” award from Automotive Leasing Guide (ALG) for retaining the highest percentage of its original price among 2009 full-size light duty pickups at the end of a conventional three-year lease, based on ALG projections

Yearly American sales

Calendar YearTotal American sales

1999 869,001

2000 876,716

2001 823,681

2002 813,701

2003 845,586

2004 939,511

2005 901,463

2006 796,039

2007 690,589

2008 515,513

2009 413,625

Notes

Ford also manufactures F-Series medium-duty trucks (F-650, F-750). School bus chassis versions are sold as B-Series trucks. The 1961–1965 Ford Falcon Econoline flat nose pickup trucks and 1961–present vans are E-Series. Parcel delivery vans are P-Series. Big tractor trailer trucks are L-Series. There was also a class 8 cab over called the W-Series in the 60's-70's, replaced by the CL-Series in 1977.

In Argentina and Brazil, the gasoline engines are often converted to also run with alternative fuels, E-96h (Brazilian-spec ethanol) and CNG (Compressed Natural Gas). Biodiesel also is used in diesel engines.

Ford also built Right-hand drive versions of the F-Series in Brazil for export to countries that drive on the left side of the road, like the United Kingdom and Australia.

Prior to the F-650 and F-750 medium-duty trucks, Ford offered F-700, F-800 and F-900 medium-duty trucks that retained the door and aft cab (A-pillar back) style and structure from the previous generation F-Series, along with the dash and instrument cluster (from early 1980s models). Current models are based on the International 4000 Series chassis with a Ford Super Duty cab.

An F-8000 was also produced based on the Ford Cargo cab-over range, which was similar to the 2006 and newer Ford LCF ("Low Cab Forward").